TOMRA Connect IoT technology for can and bottle collection machines

TOMRA Collection Solutions has launched TOMRA Connect for returns machines collecting cans and bottles for re-use and recycling. The technology will bring new insights and engagement opportunities for the locales providing the machines and the users.

The returns machines provide a deposit refund when consumers return their used beverage containers. The machines identify the can or bottle, give the appropriate refund and can compact the containers for easier transportation.

The technology offers benefits including the points program TOMRA ReAct, where consumers earn points to redeem rewards or make donations, and share their recycling activity to social media. This can complement deposit refunds or act as an incentive in markets without deposit legislation.

The machine’s touchscreen also turns the system into a donation and marketing touchpoint, where consumers can donate their recycling refund to a local charity and retailers can promote daily specials or show seasonal campaigns — all administered remotely. Retailers can also print discount coupons on refund receipts.

The smartphone app Notify + Assist pushes real-time notifications to personnel when machines require attention (like full bins, stops or low printer paper) and gives step-by-step guidance on how to remedy it.

An analytics program pulls business intelligence from big data. It shows machine queuing time, how well the machine was cleaned, recycling volumes for different times of day (so sites providing the machines can plan ahead for busy periods) and more.

The technology also combats fraud attempts, like someone trying to redeem the same deposit amount twice, through real-time validation and devaluation of refund receipts.